Article

A Visual Guide to Practical Data De-Identification

This visual guide introduces de-identification of datasets, including direct and indirect identifiers, safeguards, and controls.

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Article and PDF

Last Updated

April 25, 2016

Overview

De-identification, the process of removing personally identifiable information from data collected, stored, and used by organizations, was once viewed as a silver bullet allowing organizations to reap data benefits while at the same time avoiding risks and legal requirements. However, the concept of de-identification has come under intense pressure to the point of being discredited by some critics.

This visual guide provides a primer on how to distinguish different categories of data and introduces de-identification of datasets, including direct and indirect identifiers, safeguards, and controls.

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